The Box Plymouth wins £120,000 Museum of the Year prize

The Box, which tells the story of Plymouth through art and other pieces, was given the prize for its “ambitious and welcoming approach”, and “impactful community work and a deep commitment to access for all” according to judges.

Jenny Waldman, director of Art Fund and chairwoman of the judges for Museum of the Year, said: “The Box is a revelation in so many ways – a true jewel in the crown of the South West.

“In just five years, it has transformed how Plymouth’s remarkable collections are shared and experienced, creating a welcoming space for visitors and reaching beyond its walls into public spaces and almost every school in the city.

“Its social and economic impact demonstrates what long-term investment in culture can achieve – and is recognised and championed by Plymouth City Council.”

Art Fund said the museum had become “a leading example of what a civic museum can achieve”, claiming it had boosted Plymouth’s local economy by £244 million.

It beat competition from fellow finalists The Fitzwilliam Museum (Cambridge), The National Gallery (London), Norwich Castle Museum And Art Gallery (Norwich) and V&A East Storehouse (London), with each runner-up taking home £20,000.

Main Image: The Box Plymouth